Ebbor Gorge
A stunning limestone gorge with ancient woodlands, offering challenging hikes and panoramic views over the Somerset Levels.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Ebbor Gorge
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning limestone gorge with ancient woodlands, offering challenging hikes and panoramic views over the Somerset Levels.
"The view at the end of a shortish but tougher climb/walk was worth it."
Pick the Right Trail
Two main trails: an easier route and a more challenging one with steep steps. Choose based on fitness! :athletic_shoe:
Wear Sturdy Footwear
Trails can be narrow, steep, and unstable, especially after rain. Good grip is essential. :hiking_boot:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Deerleap Viewpoint
Top of the gorge
Panoramic views across the Somerset Levels, Glastonbury Tor, and beyond. A rewarding sight after a climb.
The Gorge Ascent
Main gorge trail
A surprising and adventurous climb through a limestone gorge with unique geological formations.
Ancient Woodlands
Throughout the gorge
Explore ancient ash and oak woodlands, a serene and atmospheric setting for a walk.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Choose Your Path Wisely
Timing is Key for Tranquility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pick the Right Trail
Two main trails: an easier route and a more challenging one with steep steps. Choose based on fitness! :athletic_shoe:
Wear Sturdy Footwear
Trails can be narrow, steep, and unstable, especially after rain. Good grip is essential. :hiking_boot:
Dog-Friendly Adventure
Your furry friends will love it, but remember to keep them on a lead. :dog:
Parking & Payment
Parking is available at Ebbor Gorge car park and can be paid for via an app. :iphone:
Tips
from all over the internet
Pick the Right Trail
Two main trails: an easier route and a more challenging one with steep steps. Choose based on fitness! :athletic_shoe:
Wear Sturdy Footwear
Trails can be narrow, steep, and unstable, especially after rain. Good grip is essential. :hiking_boot:
Dog-Friendly Adventure
Your furry friends will love it, but remember to keep them on a lead. :dog:
Parking & Payment
Parking is available at Ebbor Gorge car park and can be paid for via an app. :iphone:
Combine with Wells
Make a day of it by visiting Wells Cathedral after your gorge exploration. :cathedral:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Ebbor Gorge for its beautiful scenery, rewarding views from the top, and peaceful atmosphere, especially compared to more commercial attractions. The challenging climb through the gorge is a highlight for many, offering a sense of adventure. However, some find the trail signage unclear, and the steepness of certain paths can be a challenge for less able individuals or young children.
"Didn't know what to expect but the view at the end of a shortish but tougher climb/walk was worth it.
My 9 and 6 year old were fine with it though with a little hand holding in places. It can be narrow, steep and footing unstable in places so it's definitely a walk for the more able.
My terrier was in her happy place but dogs must be on leads.
It was very dry when we did it, I'm not sure how it would be after more wet weather through the winter."
Naomi Bushrod
"Beautiful place for an afternoon walk, peaceful, not many people, with amazing views all over the valley from the top. We did a 4 mile walk with our little dog and it was great. Highly recommended!👌"
Juan Carlos Varela
"Beautiful place, but signs to start of walks not very clear. We did the walk back to front. But a beautiful place."
Rachael
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ebbor Gorge is located near Wells in Somerset. It's a short 10-minute drive from Wells. The main car park is Ebbor Gorge car park (BA5 1EL). Some visitors suggest using apps like 'Old Trails' to find the way, though signs can be tricky. 
While there isn't direct public transport to the gorge itself, you can reach Wells by bus or train and then consider a taxi or a longer walk to the gorge.
The trails can be narrow and steep. Some visitors recommend using navigation apps or checking trail maps beforehand, as signage can be unclear.
Yes, Ebbor Gorge is conveniently located near Wookey Hole and Cheddar Gorge, making it a great addition to a day trip exploring the Mendip Hills.
Yes, there is a car park at Ebbor Gorge. Payment is typically made via an app.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ebbor Gorge is a nature preserve and generally free to enter. Parking may have a fee, payable by app.
As a natural reserve, Ebbor Gorge is typically open from dawn till dusk. It's best to check local information for any specific seasonal changes.
There is no entrance fee for Ebbor Gorge itself, but parking charges may apply.
Guided tours are not commonly advertised for Ebbor Gorge, as it's more of a self-guided natural attraction. However, local walking groups might offer excursions.
The best way to experience Ebbor Gorge is by hiking its trails, enjoying the views from Deerleap Viewpoint, and exploring the ancient woodlands.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Ebbor Gorge offers a beautiful limestone gorge with ancient woodlands, caves, and stunning viewpoints like Deerleap. It's ideal for hiking and nature walks.
Some trails are suitable for children with supervision, but the more difficult routes with steep, unstable steps are not recommended for young children.
Yes, dogs are welcome at Ebbor Gorge, but they must be kept on a lead at all times.
Expect a mix of woodland paths, steep ascents, and potentially muddy or unstable sections, especially on the more challenging routes.
Facilities are limited at Ebbor Gorge, as it's a natural reserve. It's advisable to use restrooms in nearby Wells before your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
The Deerleap Viewpoint offers spectacular panoramic shots. The winding paths through the ancient woodlands also provide beautiful, atmospheric photography opportunities.
Absolutely! The dramatic gorge, ancient trees, and expansive views from the top make it a fantastic location for landscape photographers.
Early mornings or late afternoons can offer beautiful light for photography, especially with the mist often present in the gorge.
While there are caves, access and visibility for photography can be limited. The main draw for photos is the gorge and its viewpoints.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views, while a standard zoom can be useful for woodland shots. Consider a tripod for low-light conditions. :camerawithflash:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Many families enjoy the circular walk and the rewarding views from the top. It's a great way to get kids outdoors and active. Combining a visit with a trip to Wells, which has more amenities, can make for a more comfortable day out.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
+1 Be prepared for potentially muddy and slippery conditions, especially after rain, and wear appropriate footwear. Nature lovers will appreciate the ancient woodlands with their diverse tree species and the peaceful atmosphere, which is often less crowded than more famous nearby gorges.
The geological features of the gorge are also of interest. Remember to keep dogs on a lead and be mindful of the trail conditions to ensure a safe and enjoyable hike. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Trails of Ebbor Gorge
For a more accessible experience, an easier route is available, though it might not offer the same dramatic gorge experience. It's crucial to assess the weather conditions before your visit, as the trails can become muddy and unstable, making footing precarious.
Dogs are welcome on the trails but must be kept on a lead. The car park at Ebbor Gorge offers payment via an app, so be prepared for that.
The Geological and Historical Significance
Beyond its natural beauty, Ebbor Gorge holds archaeological importance, with evidence of Neolithic and Bronze Age human activity. This adds a layer of historical intrigue to the natural landscape, suggesting the area has been valued for millennia. The presence of these ancient remains underscores the enduring appeal of this natural wonder.
While the primary draw for most visitors is the hiking and the stunning views, the underlying geological and historical context enriches the experience. It's a place where natural processes and human history have intertwined over vast periods, creating a landscape that is both beautiful and deeply resonant.
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